Man accused of selling pot to students faces federal charges

Man accused of selling pot to students faces federal charges

SEATTLE — Federal charges were filed Monday morning against Alejandro Antonio Castillo, who is accused of selling marijuana to minors. Castillo was charged with two counts of possession and intent to distribute; he is scheduled to appear in court Monday afternoon.

An undercover operation revealed that Castillo and his colleagues were selling pot to middle and high school students after a parent alerted authorities. According to a criminal complaint, on April 5 Seattle detectives witnessed 18 teens between the ages of 14 and 18 visit Castillo’s house within a 3-hour time period and leave with what appeared to be bags of marijuana. The majority of the teens appeared to be students at Ballard High School.

While marijuana was legalized in Washington state, the federal government prohibits the distribution of pot to minors.

“The Department of Justice priorities on marijuana are very clear — and one of the highest priorities is preventing the distribution of marijuana to minors,” U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan said. “The sale of marijuana to these teenagers not only impacts their ability to learn, it disrupts the educational experience for other students. This conduct is the reason we have stronger penalties for those who distribute drugs within 1,000 feet of schools, parks and other places where children congregate.”

If he is found guilty, Castillo could face up to five years in prison and be fined $250,000.

4 comments

Chris

Another illegal who couldn't follow the law coming into this country and now continues to ignore other laws. Big surprise! It will be jerks like this guy who will ruin it for everybody. Throw away the key and make an example out of him and then deport him back to Mexico where he can be with his cartel buddies.